Established in 1994, the TIFA is an important mechanism for both sides to resolve bilateral trade issues and address the concerns of the U.S. business community. At the fifth meeting of the TIFA Joint Council held in Taipei from May 25 to 26, 2006, the United States and Taiwan held a productive meeting to discuss issues related to agricultural trade, intellectual property rights, medicines, government procurement and investment, and other areas. . . .